Trang at a glance
Located approximately 828 kilometers from Bangkok, Trang Province covers an area of 4,941 square kilometers. The province borders on Nakhon Si Thammarat Province to the north, Satun Province and the Indian Ocean (Andaman Sea) to the south, Phatthalung Province to the east and the Indian Ocean and Krabi Province to the west. Trang is considered a magnificent coastal province as it long, beautiful coastline stretches 199 kilometers along the Indian Ocean. In addition, the province has two major rivers flowing through it, the Trang River, which originates in the Khao Luang Mountain Range and Maenam Palian from the Banthat Mountain Range.

Despite the fact that Trang City plays a key role in facilitating trade and communications to Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand's southern commercial hub, Trang is a province less traveled to by tourists. It was only recently that Trang has been poised to establish itself on the international travel map.

Trang has geographical advantages similar to that of Krabi and Phang-Nga. This includes breathtaking islands and astounding beaches along the coast as well as awe-inspiring inland limestone- propped mountains. The province consists of an archipelago in the Andaman Sea with over 46 islands. Of these, 12 are in Amphoe Kantang, 13 in Amphoe Palian and 21 in Amphoe Sikao. The best time to visit Trang is between December and May.

Trang has both mainland beaches and a whole string of offshore islands. For visitors interested in light-adventure activities such as cruising coastal waters, visiting notable sights such as the enchanting Emerald Cave, which is accessible only by water, will prove to be remarkable experience. Additional attractions include the Mu Ko Petra National Park with beaches and islands lapped by the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. Some of the dive sites in the National Park are world-class. There are also wildlife sanctuaries such as Namtok Khao Chong and Khlong Lamchan Park with waterfalls, nature trails and caves. For those looking for a relaxed, tranquil ambience, Trang is a perfect place to unwind amidst stunning scenery.

With an abundance of blissful attractions mixed with cultural heritage, Trang Province is truly an emerging fascinating tourist destination with numerous jungles, mountains and waterfalls.

The City also has numerous attractions. Walking around Trang City, visitors will be amazed at the mixture of Western, Chinese and Thai cultures reflected in the architecture that range from the Sino- Portuguese shop houses to the Chinese temples and shrines. The Pan-Ya House is the local style of houses in Trang, which offers an insight into the architectural heritage of this town. In addition to architectural attractions there are many parks to stroll through and markets to explore. The main two markets in Trang are Ta Klang and Municipal markets.

History of Trang

Trang or Muang Thap Thiang used to be a port engaged in foreign trade. It was the first city where rubber was planted after Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi brought it from Malaysia in 1899. Since then, rubber has become Souths major commodity and is now considered an important source of income for farmers.

The best time to visit Trang is between December and May. As it is located on the same coastline as Phuket and Krabi Provinces, Trang Province is also influenced by the monsoon. The temperature is generally warm all year round with an average temperature varying from 20 Celsius to 36 Celsius.

In April, the daytime temperature is highest and it is also the hottest period of the year. The rainy season, which is from May to September, has rains and short downpours during the daytime. The monsoon period comes from September to November and then from December onwards the weather generally becomes more pleasant.

The fare for motorcycle taxis around the town is between 10 baht and 20 baht, while that of tuk-tuks is approximately 15 baht. Motorcycles can be rented from various shops around town.

Festivals Vegetarian Festival
For vegetarians, a Vegetarian Festival is organized every October. This is a Chinese tradition where believers refrain from eating meat and particular vegetables for nine days in order to make merit and give offerings to the spirits.

Na Muen Si Woven
Na Muen Si Woven is the most famous product of Na Muen Si, a Tambon in Trang. Currently there is a women's Na Mun Si weaving group that maintains the weaving heritage of the area. Visitors can see the group's works at its office located on the road to Khao Chang Hai Cave, or about 5 kilometers on Na Muen Si Road. For more information, please contact the Amphoe Na Yong Community Development Office, tel. (075) 242431.

Roast Pork
Roast pork is a famous food of Trang Province. The pork is crispy on the outside and tender in the middle as it is marinated in honey and spices for 5 hours before being roasted in an oven of large barbecue that was preheated for two hours. The dish provides a source of protein and fat. It can be eaten with rice or with a cup of coffee, which is one of the popular breakfast dishes of the Trang people. The roast pork is also used in giving offerings to gods during many ceremonies. Every September a Roast Pork Festival is organized in Trang Province mainly to promote tourism.

AttractionsKhao Pina
This unique mountain is hollow all the way to the top resembling an overturned pan. At the foot of the mountain is Wat Khao Pina, a temple where a reclining Buddha image is enshrined at the cave entrance. Concrete stairs allow visitors to see the caves beauty, with options of 3 trails. With lush forests and a tranquil environment, the area is perfect for relaxation.

The mountain is in Tambon Na Wong, 45 kilometers from the city on Phetkasem Road. There is a 2 kilometer road which branches out from there to the mountain.

Namtok Ton Te
This waterfall is located 45 kilometers from the city. Originating in the Banthat Mountain Range, the waterfall drops 320 meters down to the rocks. Assorted tropical flora covers the surrounding area. The waterfall is accessible by car throughout the year. To reach the waterfall, take Trang-Phatthalung Road for about 17 kilometers, turn right onto the Ban Kachong-Ban Hat Lao Road (Highway No. 4124) for about 27 kilometers and finally make a left turn and proceed for another 1 kilometer.

Tha-le Song Hong (lake of Two Rooms)
Located to the northwest of the province is a large lake surrounded by limestone hills. A mountain in the middle of the lake divides it in half resulting in the name Thale Song Hong. With an awesome view, crystal clear water which allows perfect viewing of the many fishes underneath, the lake is a perfect spot for fun and relaxation.

Thale Song Hong is in Tambon Bang Di, 8 kilometers from the district center. To get there, take Phetkasem Road (HuaiYot-Krabi) to Ban Phraek, then turn right and proceed for 12 kilometers.

Tha-le Song Hong National Boy Scouts Camp
The camp is situated near Thale Song Hong in Tambon Bang Di. Covering an area of 2,080 square kilometers, the camp was established by the Department of Physical Education. The camp provides meeting and seminar rooms and other facilities for boy scouts around the country. There are 18 Southern-style houses available, each can accommodate up to 10 persons. Campsites are also provided. For more information, please contact the Trang Physical Education and Sports Center at Stadium 1, tel. 0-7522-4294.

Tham Khao Kop (Khao Kop Cave)

A canal from the Banthat Mountain Range is divided into 3 waterways upon reaching Khao Kop, with 2 going around the mountain and the other flowing through the cave under the mountain. An amazing natural wonder, the main attraction at Khao Kop is this stream which flows through the cave. In addition, the cave itself looks like a high and steep cliff with layers of rocks and stalactites and stalagmites magnificently decorating the cave for a distance of approximately 4 kilometers.

Currently, the Khao Kop Tambon Administration Organization provides rowboats to facilitated visitors explorations of the cave. In addition, eco-tourism and light-adventure activities are provided by the locals.

The cave is in located in Mu 1, Tambon Khao Kop, approximately 7 kilometers from the District Office on Phetkasem Road. Upon arriving at the kilometer 7 marker, turn left onto a 700-meter road that leads to the site. The fee is 200 baht for 7 persons, or 30 baht per person. For more information, please contact the Tambon Administration Organization at tel. 0-7527-1426.

Chao Mai Cave-Chao Khun Cave
This is a stalagmite/stalactite cave in To Nae Mountain, near Ban Chao Mai. It can be reached by a 15-minute boat trip from Hat Yao. A small rowboat can take travelers to explore the cave and proceed through to a verdant mangrove forest.

Hat Yao
This is a long beach that extends from a sharks fin shaped mountain to the north. Located at Mu 6 in Tambon Ko Libong, the beach is dotted with lovely sea pines and is therefore very suitable for camping. Private accommodations are also available.

Hat Yong Ling and Hat San
Situated on the way to Chao Mai Beach, Hat Yong Ling and Hat San are curved beaches that run parallel to a pine forest. At the end of the beach is a high mountain with niches, caves and a passageway to a cliff with more caves and rocks, similar to a fortress encircling sand dunes. The beach is ideal for swimming and relaxing. The park headquarters and a tourist service center provide services to tourists.

Hot Spring
Thailand's hot springs are not located only in the northern region, but also in the south. At Mu 7, Tambon Bo Nam Ron, the hot spring is accessible via a road from Kantang (kilometer 10 marker). This natural hot spring has a constant temperature of 60 degrees Celsius. It is growing in importance as an attraction for tourists concerned with their health.

Khuan Tamnak Chan Public Park
The park is located approximately 24 kilometers from the city. Encompassing an area of 250 rai, the park offers spectacular surroundings and a magnificent view of the sea and Kantang District. Having been developed to grow large trees and decorative plants, the park is equipped with tourist facilities that include resting pavilion and a parking lot.

Ko Chueak - Ko Waen
Small islands between Ko Muk and Ko Kradan, the islands are blessed with amazingly colorful shallow and deepwater corals that are the habitat of many types of fish. Visitors can take boats from Pak Meng Pier to the islands. Boats leave regularly on the same route as to Ko Muk and Ko Kradan. The 50-minute trip costs 1,500 baht/day for a chartered boat.

Ko Kradan
One of the most beautiful islands in Trang, Ko Kradan is located about 40 minutes by boat from the mainland. With an area of 600 rai (240 acres), most of the island belongs to Hat Chao Mai National Park. The rest are privately owned rubber and coconut plantations.

The island offers good restaurants and accommodations for tourists. The most striking feature of Ko Kradan is its powdery, white beach and crystal clear water that permits a great view of the coral reef underneath. The reef stretches from the beachs northern end to the coast. A variety of colorful fish inhabit the shallow water corals making the site perfect for snorkeling. Ko Kradan is to the west of Ko Muk and Ko Libong. From Pak Meng Pier, visitors can take a 1.5-hour boat trip to Ko Kradan.

There is one resort on Ko Kradan providing rooms and bungalows as well as major resort facilities.

Ko Libong
Ko Libong, Trangs largest island is located in Tambon Libong and is part of the Libong Archipelago Wildlife Reserve whose headquarters are located here. With an area of 40,000 square kilometers, Ko Libong, which is a haven for holidaymakers, has many fishing villages where most of the residents are Muslims.

The island has many capes and beaches such as Tup Beach, Chu Hoi Cape, Thuat Cape, and To Chai Cape. At low tide visitors can walk across the beach from Chu Hoi Cape to Ko Tup where numerous seabirds and mangrove birds from colder climates congregate during their migration. Around the island are masses of seaweed where rare herds of manatees can be seen. It is also the home of a variety of native and migratory birds that are most abundant in winter.

From Ko Libong, visitors can get a good view of Ko Chao Mai and Chao Mai Cape. To reach the island, take a boat that leaves every hour at Hat Yao Ban Chao Mai Pier. The fare for the 30 minute trip is 400 baht per boat. Accommodations are provided on the island. For more information, please contact the Libong Archipelago Wildlife Reserve, P.O. Box 5, Amphoe Kantang, Trang, tel. 0-7525-1932.

Ko Muk and Tham Morakot (Emerald Cave)
Not just another interesting attraction, Ko Muk is the most outstanding attraction in the Trang Sea and an ideal destination for tourists enthralled with nature. The island, which is nearly opposite Hat Chang Lang on the mainland, has impeccable beaches suitable for swimming and camping and lovely corals around the island that are worth exploring. In addition, The island is comprised of high and majestic cliffs facing the sea to the west, a fishing village on the east facing the mainland and swallows that make the numerous cliffs their home.

Hidden in the jungle, among the cliffs is the awesome Tham Morakot. The cave entrance is a small passage on the islands western side that is accessible by boat during low tide. The cave itself winds for about 80 meters to the other exit, opening onto a clean white beach with an emerald color open pool which is surrounded by high cliffs.

To see real fishermens' daily activities, visit Ao Phangkha and the Muslim fishing village of Kua Laem, located at the southern end of the island.

To get to Ko Muk, tourists can take a boat from Pak Meng Pier in Amphoe Sikao for the 40-minute trip. The rental fee for the boat is approximately 1,500 bahts / day. Accommodations are available on the island.

Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi Museum
This is a historical site where the former ruler of Trang, Phraya Ratsadanupradit, once lived. Inside the two-story wooden building are a wax figure of the former ruler and a complete collection of his daily personal items. Currently, the Na Ranong family manages the house. The Museum is located around 200 meters from Kantang Municipality at No. 1, Khai Phithak Road, Tambon Kantang. It is open to the public every day, except Mondays (it is open on public holidays but closed the following day). Guide services are available for group tours, and must be requested in advance at the Kantang Phitthayakon School tel. 0-7525-1100.

The First Rubber Tree in Thailand
This tree, which is located along a road that leads to Kantang, represents the first group of rubber trees that Phraya Ratsadanupradit planted to pioneer Thailand's rubber plantation industry in 1899.

Phra Non Song Khrueang Manora
This image in death posture is enshrined at Wat Phu Khao Thong, Mu 1, Tambon Nam Phut, around 20 kilometers from the city. The head is the most distinctive feature of the image as it is decorated with a head-dress of the Nora dance called the Throet a holy and royal ornament of Southern Thailand's indigenous dance performance.

Phra Srinagarindra Park (Thung Nam Phut)
Located 3 kilometers from the city along Nam Phut Road, and on the right of Tha Klang Road is a beautifully landscaped park with a magnificent view.

Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi Monument
This monument was built to commemorate Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi, a former ruler of Trang Province who introduced and initiated rubber cultivation, which led to the widespread planting of rubber in southern Thailand. A man with long vision, he was instrumental in the development of Trang's infrastructure, agriculture, animal husbandry, education system, and laid out the structure of local administration. The site is located in Trang Municipal Park, about 1 kilometer from the Provincial Hall on the Trang-Phatthalung route.

Sa Kaphang Surin
This is a natural pool of about 80,000 square meters. Spanning the pool is a concrete bridge connecting the three beautiful pavilions located in the pools center. The surrounding area is a public park. In addition, there is a zoo not far from Phraya Ratsadanupradit Monument. This pool is located in Trang Municipality, approximately 2 kilometers from the Provincial Hall on Wian Kaphang Road.

Tham Khao Sam Bat (Cave)
It is believed that this is the place where as much as three alms-bowls full of treasure was hidden. The cave is archeologically significant as some ancient writing was found on the wall of the cave. Prince Krom Phraya Narisara Nuwattiwong determined that the writing was of the Ayutthaya period (1709-1732 A.D.). Some ancient pieces of clay pots, sea shells and stone tools were also found in 1980 by a team of archeologists from the Department of Archeology, Silpakorn University and in 1990, a drawing of what looks like three red mountains was discovered.

Khao Chong Wildlife Development and Conservation Promotion Station
Thailand's first nature and wildlife study place, the Station is covered with large trees, streams and waterfalls like Ton Yai, Ton Noi and Ka Chong. Its nature study trail is a walking trail that is ideal for studying nature up close, with signs along the trail providing information on the environment. The Museum and Exhibition Building has exhibitions on nature and natural resource conservation. The Station is located approximately 21 kilometers from the City on the Trang-Phatthalung Road. More information can be obtained from the station at Mu 7, Tambon Chong, Amphoe Na Yong, P.O. Box 4, Trang.

Khlong Lam Chan Waterfall Park
A large swamp in the Park is home to numerous waterfowls whose migration period is from January to March. The park is a peaceful place suitable for relaxation, or even overnight camping. This Park is in Khlong Lam Chan Wildlife Reserve, 17 kilometers from the city on the Trang-Phatthalung route, then take a right turn on the Ban Ka Chong-Ban Hat Lao Road (Highway No. 4124) and proceed for about 1 kilometer. Contact Wildlife Reserve Section, Wildlife Conservation Division, Royal Forestry Department, tel. 0-2561-4292-4 ext. 714 for more details.

Namtok Ka Chong
This splendid waterfall, which cascades from a high mountain down a cliff to rocks below, is a popular spot for local residents. The waterfall is located in Khao Chong Botanical Park on the Trang-Phatthalung Road in Amphoe Na Yong, some 7 kilometers from the District Office.

Tham Khao Chang Hai
The cave, which is the site of heavenly made stalagmites and stalactites in various shapes, is 5 kilometers from Amphoe Na Yong Market in Ban Na Muen Si.

Ko Sukon
This island is a Tambon in Palian District, only 3 kilometers from shore via the Trang-Palian Road (Highway No. 404). The island has many charming and quiet beaches which are ideal for relaxation. It is a place where visitors can see both rice fields and rubber tree plantations in tiny villages. In addition, it is renowned in the province for its delicious watermelons, which is harvested in March and April.

To reach the island, take a bus on Trang-Palian route or a van from Amphoe Muang for approximately 35 kilometers and board a ferry for a 40-minute crossing at Tha Kham Pier in Palian. Ferries leave twice daily at 10.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. Alternatively, visitors can board a boat at Ta-se Pier in King Amphoe Hat Samran. TO reach this pier take Highway No. 404, turn right at Ban Na intersection and proceed for approximately 18 kilometers and turn left and proceed for approximately 7 kilometers. The total traveling time is 20-30 minutes. The rented boat costs 500 baht for 10 people. Accommodations on the island are available.

As the majority of the inhabitants of the island are Muslim, please remember to dress properly while spending time there as a gesture of respect to the local residents.

Mu Ko Phetra National Park
This marine national park, which is located in Amphoe Palian and Amphoe La-ngu in Satun, was proclaimed a national park on 31 December 1994. Comprising islands such as Ko Phetra, Ko Khao Yai, Ko Lanti, Ko Lidi, Ko Bulon, Ko Laoliang, and Ko Praoma, the park is accessible from Pak Bara Pier in Satun. The most suitable time to visit the National Park is from December to April. Tourist accommodations are available near the park headquarters. For more information, please contact the Marine National Parks Division at tel. 0-2561-2920-1 or the Mu Ko Phetra National Park at Mu 4, Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe Langu, Satun, tel. 0-7478-1572.

Namtok Ton Te
This waterfall is located 45 kilometers from the city. Originating in the Banthat Mountain Range, the waterfall drops 320 meters down to the rocks. Assorted tropical flora covers the surrounding area. The waterfall is accessible by car throughout the year. To reach the waterfall, take Trang-Phatthalung Road for about 17 kilometers, turn right onto the Ban Kachong-Ban Hat Lao Road (Highway No. 4124) for about 27 kilometers and finally make a left turn and proceed for another 1 kilometer.

Namtok Ton Tok
This waterfall and Nam Tok Ton Te, which are located 1 kilometer apart from each other, are connected by a walking trail. With streams flowing through large and small rocks, Ton Tok waterfall offers a great view of Ton Tae waterfall.

Hat Chao Mai National Park
This area, which was proclaimed a marine national park on 14 October 1982, covers the 2 districts of Kantang and Sikao. The park headquarters is situated at Chang Lang Beach in Tambon Mai Fat, approximately 47 kilometers from the city.

Hat Chao Mai has a 20-kilometer coastline and a 5-kilometer long white sandy beach which is set against shady casuarinas and limestone hills with caves. Most caves are of historical importance as prehistoric human remains are found.

Land-based attractions of the park are Pak Meng Beach, Chang Lang Beach, San Beach, Yao Beach, Yong Ling Beach, Chao Mai Beach, and Chao Mai Cave. All are easily accessible by car. Moreover, there are 7 other islands for which the park is responsible. They are Ko Muk, Ko Kradan, Ko Chueak, Ko Pling, Ko Waen, Ko Meng, and Ko Chao Mai. The park also features the Marine Natural Study Center (tel. 0-7521-0664) and the Tourist Service Center.

In the national park, endangered dugong can be spotted along with rare black-necked stork. More common wildlife includes macaques, languors, wild pigs, pangolins, pacific-reef egrets, etc.

To reach the park, take the Trang-Sikao-Pak Meng Road (Highway No. 4162) for 40 kilometers and then 7 kilometers more on a road that runs parallel to the beach to the park headquarters.

Hat Pak Meng
The beautiful and peaceful, 5-kilometer long beach resembles a crescent moon and is fringed by a lovely pine forest. Assorted large and small islands dot the sea, looking like a person lying face up in the ocean. Local residents of Trang and people from nearby provinces like to come here to relax and sample the spicy seafood. Boats from Pak Meng Pier takes visitors to Ko Ngai and other islands close by. The beach is located at Mu 4, Tambon Mai Fat, 38 kilometers from the city on the Trang-Sikao-Pak Meng Road (Highway No. 4046-4162).

Ko Ngai or Ko Hai
This is an island that is actually in Amphoe Ko Lanta of Krabi. However, it is classified as a tourist destination in the Trang Sea because access is easier from Trang. The island has a white beach, clear waters and is surrounded by magnificent corals. A boat trip from Pak Meng Pier takes about an hour. A 10-person capacity boat can be rented at the cost of 1,500 baht, for 20 to 40 persons the price is 6,000-10,000 baht. Accommodations are available on the island.

Rajamangkala Aquarium
The Aquarium is a large building located inside the Fishery Faculty, Rajamangkala Institute of Technology, Trang Campus, Tambon Mai Fat. The aquarium has 61 displays and a number of fishponds and features freshwater and marine fish, amphibians and the most realistic model of a mangrove forest. The Aquarium is situated approximately 30 kilometers from the city on the Trang-Sikao-Pak Meng Road (Highway No. 4046-4162) and is open daily during official hours. For more information, call tel. 0-7524-8201-5.

Namtok Lam Plok
This is a large 6-tiered waterfall where visitors can see islands and the view of the mouth of Maenam Palian from the top. To get there, take the Trang-Phatthalung Road until you see the kilometer 17 marker, turn right to Ban Ka Chong-Ban Hat Lao Road, and proceed for another 26 kilometers, finally turning left into the waterfall. The Khlong Lam Plok Hydroelectric Project is situated here.

Namtok Phrai Sawan
A medium-sized waterfall with 17 sub-levels, Phrai Sawan Waterfall is ideal for relaxation. The fall has rubber boats available to take visitors on a 5-kilometer raft trip around the waterfall. It can be reached by taking the Trang-Phatthalung Road to the kilometer 17 marker, then turning right onto the Ban Ka Chong-Ban Hat Lao Road and proceeding for 20 kilometers. At the directional sign for the Waterfall turn left and proceed for another 4.5 kilometers.

Namtok Sai Rung
This single-level cascade waterfall has strong current that cascades from a huge high cliff. The water turns into a rainbow as the sun shines onto it. To get there, take the Trang-Phatthalung Road, At kilometer 17 marker, turn right to the Ban Ka Chong-Ban Hat Lao Road and proceed for 15 kilometers, then turn left at the waterfall sign and continue for about 4 kilometers.

Southern Thailand Botanical Garden (Thung Khai)
A new attraction for those interested in studying nature, particularly flora, the garden has a botanical garden, an herbal garden, a botanical library, a plant museum, and a technical meeting center. The most exciting activity of the park is trekking. With its many nature trails going through a lowland jungle, as well as a forest with many interesting plant species, nature lovers should not miss this opportunity to explore the terrain. The Botanical Garden can be reached via the Trang-Palian Road (Highway No. 404) until reaching kilometer 11 marker. Accommodations are available. For more information, please contact tel. 0-7521-8435.